För by Agnieszka Sosnowska
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Agnieszka Sosnowska’s story begins with her birth in Poland and her upbringing in Boston, Massachusetts. Coming of age between two countries with distinct cultural identities, she often felt like she belonged to neither fully. This sense of not fitting in persisted until she moved to Iceland in adulthood, where she finally found a place that felt like home.
Meeting her Icelandic husband 20 years ago was a pivotal moment in her life. It led her to a remote, rural lifestyle in eastern Iceland, where she now resides on a farm and works as a teacher in a tight-knit rural K-12 school. Immersed in nature's untouched beauty, Agnieszka found a profound sense of calm and focus. The harsh climate and long periods of darkness demanded resilience and hard work, fostering a determination that is evident in her art. This environment, both challenging and inspiring, has been instrumental in her growth as an artist and individual.
Living on the farm for nearly fifteen years has forged a deep, demanding relationship with nature. Self-reliance is paramount, as most tasks, from building water sources to maintaining the land, are done independently. This lifestyle is both arduous and rewarding, instilling a strong sense of ownership and pride in the land she and her husband have cultivated. Visitors often marvel at the beauty and isolation of their home, reinforcing the unique and hard-won nature of their life. This self-sufficiency and connection to the land are central themes in her work, reflecting the intricate balance between man and nature.
While Agnieszka enjoys the vibrancy of urban landscapes during short visits, she finds city life overwhelming and distracting. The constant noise and activity make it difficult for her to hear her own thoughts. As she ages, she craves the simplicity and clarity that living in nature provides. This preference for rural over urban environments is reflected in her photography, which captures the tranquility and raw beauty of her surroundings. Her work embraces spontaneity and the freedom to document daily life as it unfolds, whether through portraits of students or candid moments with friends and family.
Agnieszka's debut monograph, "För," is an intimate portrait of her life and community in East Iceland. Using a large format view camera, she photographs the land and people with tenderness and unwavering commitment.
Set amidst the harsh elements and rugged beauty of the Nordic landscape, "För" is a book of gratitude and love—a story about finding home and a chosen family that carries through the seasons of life. Her artistic journey emphasizes being present in the moment, embracing chances, and learning from mistakes, creating deeply personal and resonant works that reflect her journey as an artist and a human being.